Medical support apparatus

Abstract

A medical chair comprising a base having one wheel having a brake; and a manual braking mechanism for selectively actuating the brake at the wheel; and a control system operable to control the brake in response to a signal or lack of signal at the chair. Further, the control system includes an actuator, which is coupled to the manual braking mechanism to move the manual braking mechanism to a braking or unbraking position. For example, the actuator may comprise a solenoid, the solenoid being coupled to the manual braking mechanism.

Description

[0001]The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application, entitled MEDICAL SUPPORT APPARATUS, Ser. No. 61 / 791,255, filed Mar. 15, 2013 (STR03D P410), which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD AND BACKGROUND[0002]The present invention relates to a patient support apparatus, and more particularly to a medical recliner chair.[0003]It is well known in the medical field that a patient's recovery time can be improved if the patient becomes more mobile. However, egress and exit from a traditional hospital bed can be challenging. One step on the pathway to becoming more mobile is to have a patient be transitioned to sitting in a chair, for example a reclining chair, for at least part of the time, which generally provides greater ease of egress and exit.SUMMARY[0004]According to one embodiment, a medical chair is provided that includes a base, a seat, first and second actuators, and a controller. The first actuator is for tilting the se...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes various chairs and recliners with arm rests that can be moved between raised and lowered positions. The arm rests are designed to be easily raised and lowered, with a constant force spring to assist with the movement. Some chairs have a virtual pivot for the seat, which allows for easier movement. The chairs also have safety features to prevent the arm rest from being locked in positions that could be dangerous. The bottom of the arm rest can be lowered to make it easier to transfer patients from the chair to a bed. The bed can also be independently raised and adjusted to different positions. The patent text shows that these features can improve the overall comfort and mobility of medical chairs and recliners.

Problems solved by technology

However, egress and exit from a traditional hospital bed can be challenging.

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